Wood proves versatile in Santa Clara's victory

Cierre Wood did it all for the Santa Clara High football team on Friday night.

In a matchup of 3-0 teams, Wood ensured that it was Santa Clara that remained undefeated, as the senior ran 20 times for 153 yards and touchdown runs of 3, 49 and 15 yards in Santa Clara's 40-18 win over visiting L.A. Baptist.

Wood was also an impact in more ways than one. Wood threw to Nick Gleason for a 28- yard touchdown pass with 8:32 left in the fourth quarter.

L.A. Baptist's D.J. Tripoli returned the ensuing kickoff 80 yards for the score, but Santa Clara put the game out of reach three minutes later, as Wood switched roles by catching Michael Laubaucher's pass from 33 yards out for a touchdown to seal the win.

Wood had plenty of help from his teammates. Dyrel Lackey rushed nine times for 109 yards and Dan Espinoza rushed six times for 70 yards, including a 19-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. Lozano knows that type of production will be very important as Santa Clara enters Tri-Valley League play.

"We're trying to get the best out of everyone," Lozano said. "It's about the 11 guys on the field and guys are stepping up."